Baby Acne

Definition

Baby acne is very common. It can be present at birth, but more often it shows up after a couple of weeks, usually on the cheeks and sometimes on the forehead, chin, and even the back. Infants usually develop neonatal acne because of stimulation of the baby’s sebaceous glands by lingering maternal hormones after delivery.

Baby acne often develops within the first three to four weeks after birth. Many babies have both conditions at once.

Causes

Baby acne is related to hormonal changes that stimulate oil glands in the skin. Baby acne is more common in boys. Rarely, baby acne is a sign of a hormonal problem. Sometimes, baby acne is associated by contact with dirty clothes. In some cases, it may develop due to the over dress the baby to fight off cold. Baby acne presents itself on a baby's cheeks, chin, the back and the forehead. What causes the baby's acne is when the follicles are block and sebum which is an oil gland gets block and then bacteria begins to grow.

Symptoms

Fleshy or red pimples occur predominately on the cheeks, but are also quite common on the forehead and chin. Whiteheads are sometimes present.

Baby acne usually clears up within a few weeks, but it can linger for months. If it doesn't clear up within three months or you're concerned about it, talk with your baby's doctor. However, if your baby's skin appears to become even more red or swollen, you should go to the doctor.

Treatment

Usually, no treatment is necessary. It is best to leave it alone. Topical remedies and vigorous washing could irritate your baby's sensitive skin. Baby acne is not uncommon among the new born. Its other name is infantile acne. Though cheek is the favorite place of baby acne, it manifests over chin and forehead as well. Babies are born with it, it can get it anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months age. It can hang on till the baby reaches the age of six months as well.

Gently cleanse his face once a day with water, and perhaps a mild baby soap. Oils and lotions do not help, and may aggravate the condition. If the acne is severe or lasts beyond 6 months, your pediatrician may prescribe a mild medicine to help.